Exercises for Dutch Nouns Gender: De vs. Het

Mastering the gender of Dutch nouns is a crucial step in achieving fluency in the Dutch language. Unlike in English, every Dutch noun is assigned one of two genders: "de" or "het." Understanding when to use "de" or "het" can initially seem daunting for English speakers, as there are no hard-and-fast rules that apply universally. However, with consistent practice and exposure, you can develop an intuitive sense for which article to use. Our exercises are specifically designed to help you differentiate between "de" and "het" nouns, providing a robust foundation for your Dutch language skills. In these exercises, you will encounter a variety of common and less common Dutch nouns, each paired with its correct definite article. Through repetitive practice, you will begin to recognize patterns and exceptions, enhancing your ability to use these articles correctly in everyday conversation. Whether you are a beginner just starting your Dutch language journey or an intermediate learner looking to solidify your understanding, these exercises will help you gain confidence and precision in your use of "de" and "het." Dive in and start practicing to make this essential aspect of Dutch grammar second nature.

Exercise 1

1. *De* kat ligt op de bank (definite article for singular nouns).

2. *Het* boek ligt op de tafel (definite article for singular nouns).

3. *De* auto staat voor de deur (definite article for singular nouns).

4. *Het* huis heeft een grote tuin (definite article for singular nouns).

5. *De* hond rent in het park (definite article for singular nouns).

6. *Het* water in de rivier is koud (definite article for singular nouns).

7. *De* leerling maakt zijn huiswerk (definite article for singular nouns).

8. *Het* kind speelt met zijn speelgoed (definite article for singular nouns).

9. *De* zon schijnt door de wolken (definite article for singular nouns).

10. *Het* weer is vandaag erg mooi (definite article for singular nouns).

Exercise 2

1. Ik heb *de* auto gewassen (definite article for a masculine/feminine noun).

2. We hebben *het* boek gelezen (definite article for a neuter noun).

3. *De* hond blafte de hele nacht (definite article for a masculine/feminine noun).

4. Hij kocht *het* huis gisteren (definite article for a neuter noun).

5. Zij draagt altijd *de* jurk naar feestjes (definite article for a masculine/feminine noun).

6. *Het* kind speelde in de tuin (definite article for a neuter noun).

7. Ik heb *de* fiets in de schuur gezet (definite article for a masculine/feminine noun).

8. *Het* vliegtuig landde veilig (definite article for a neuter noun).

9. *De* kat sliep op de bank (definite article for a masculine/feminine noun).

10. We aten *het* brood voor ontbijt (definite article for a neuter noun).

Exercise 3

1. *De* hond slaapt in zijn mand (household pet).

2. *Het* huis is groot en mooi (a place where people live).

3. *De* tafel staat in de eetkamer (furniture for dining).

4. *Het* boek ligt op de plank (object for reading).

5. *De* kat zit op de vensterbank (household pet).

6. *Het* water in de zee is koud (a natural liquid).

7. *De* auto staat in de garage (a vehicle).

8. *Het* vliegtuig landt op de luchthaven (a flying vehicle).

9. *De* stoel is comfortabel (a piece of furniture to sit on).

10. *Het* mes is scherp (a tool for cutting).